Deer Island

A Wee Jewel in the Bay of Fundy

Deer Island, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, is a tiny jewel in the Bay of Fundy. It truly is a hidden gem. Many Maritimers I ask, say they have never been. Don't make this same mistake and miss the chance to explore this rugged, natural beauty. Treat yourself to a dawn to dusk adventure, or stay for a day or two - or a week, or two. Unplug and discover what getting back to nature really means on this sweet little Bay of Fundy isle.

Day Trip Wonder

Residents, all 1000 of them, happily welcome you to share their island. My husband surprised me with a wonderful day trip adventure to Deer Island, and upon our return (and a little research), I realized we absolutely need to go back for an overnight stay to explore much more of this quaint rural oasis.

Drive slowly and keep an eye out for the other residents inhabiting Deer Island. White-tailed deer seem to enjoy free range here. They are everywhere! See them foraging for a meal over hill and dale, and lawn and garden. The residents don't seem to mind much, so please be careful to preserve this happy relationship they both enjoy by being watchful on the roadways (for the animals' safety and yours). It is magical to see these exquisite creatures all over the island. Go slow and enjoy the experience.

Nothing Fishy Here Folks

Fishing and aquaculture are the main industry here as is evident by the abundant fishing boats and fishing weirs. Lobster pounds are plentiful too, as these seafood crustaceans are held here until shipped elsewhere. Photographers, artists, deep sea divers, whale watchers, birdwatchers, nature lovers, hikers, bikers, kayakers, beachcombers, campers and sightseers must make up the rest of the economy's supporters, as there is much here for these folks.

Support Local and Spread the Word

There are a few places to show your appreciation to support the local economy on Deer Island. You can stay overnight at the one motel or camp at the only campground. There are a few cottages to rent and Bed & Breakfast accommodations on the island as well. Be sure to enjoy a meal at the licensed restaurant or at a local diner, pick up an artwork or an artisan treasure at one of the many art galleries or gift shops, find a good used book or antique treasure at a roadside shop, or buy some treats at a general store, then tell two friends about Deer Island. Spread the word - Deer Island is a perfect destination and it is right in your own backyard.

Second Largest Tidal Whirlpool in the World

Deer Island Point Park and Campground, is the perfect place to camp and it one of the best places to enjoy scenic ocean vista views - perhaps you might even spot a whale or seal too. Mother nature serves it all up here. It is also the site of 'Old Sow' ~ the largest known tidal whirlpool in the Western Hemisphere (second largest in the world)!

It was all calm and quiet when we were here but we were told 'Old Sow' is unwilling to disclose all her mysteries from afar. It is no joke either, as it is said this whirlpool can boil with treacherous 'walls of water', when heavy winds and high tides combine. Often described as 'liquid chaos,’ there are many stories that have been shared over the years of swallowed boats, near death experiences and worse when lives and vessels were sucked into 'Old Sow', never to return. So, enjoy the view from the shore. The best time is during high tide, and give this area the respect it deserves, as even experienced sailors and fishermen will attest, you are no match for her fury when caught in 'Old Sow'.

The 45th Parallel

The 45th Parallel Restaurant is almost the only show in town, but it is darling! Home-cooked meals with seafood of course, is the specialty. The owner Diane Bustin, is a hoot, giving you the story behind anything you want to know, including that her place is the longest running established dining facility (and motel) on Deer Island and her restaurant has been recommended as one of the top places to eat in Canada. Diane is a wealth of local information, if you need directions or if you are just are wondering about something local. Don't hesitate to ask and then sit back and be prepared to be entertained with the 'real scoop'. Diane is a character and she runs a tight ship. Her kitchen crew is efficient and her place is dressed to impress in a charming red and white country gingham decor.

Diane shared with us that she's been running this place for over 30 years, and has to hang onto it a bit longer as a very young granddaughter has expressed aspirations of following in her footsteps. So, doing the math - given her successor's dream, the 45th Parallel Restaurant should be around for at least another 30+ years and then some. Stop in, catch up on the island's news and enjoy a lobster roll and chowder in this little charmer on the hill above Fairhaven, over-looking the Western Passage.

Enjoy the Journey

This serene island captured my heart and it had me wanting to return as soon as possible to discover more of her hidden beauty. Ideally, I would love to stay a few days and nights to allow me time to talk to the locals to uncover the hidden beaches and special places they enjoy the most. However, that being said, no research is truly needed to enjoy this wee wonder if you are up for an adventure. My husband and I had a glorious day, just driving and stopping whenever something caught our eye, on this impromptu trip, that took our breath away - around every corner we turned.

Catch the Ferry

So catch the ferry - (there's no charge) and it runs every 30 minutes from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Get out and take in the views on the short 20-minute trip then prepare to be 'wowed' on the smallest Bay of Fundy island with the grandest views.

All thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn & Threads. Subscribe to be the first to receive my latest articles. Share articles you love with your social media community so they, too, will discover, There’s No Place Like Home!